5 Reasons to Grab a Copy of the recently published RO-DBT Workbook

I discovered RO-DBT a few years ago. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to participate in an RO-DBT skills class and recently started individual RO-DBT. When I learned that a workbook specific to RO-DBT was getting published, I was thrilled. I waited for months, and finally got my copy a few weeks ago.
To “out” myself here, I must admit that the other night, I found myself flipping through the pages of the RO-DBT workbook at bedtime – a time when I’m supposed to be relaxing, not improving.
The fact that I was going through the workbook when I was supposed to unwind is a discussion to have with my individual therapist (I can already feel a “don’t hurt me response” emerging, hehe) – but for now, let’s dive into the top 5 reasons you should rush to your nearest bookstore and use your best social signaling skill to get a copy.
1. It’s a perfectly reasonable excuse to buy new stationery.
For me, getting a new workbook feels like getting a new journal. It inspires hope and possibility. If you lean OC, you may have a hard time rewarding yourself. You may like spreadsheets and practical office supplies versus cute, but not so practical stationery items, like animal shaped erasers or scented pencils.
Therefore, getting a copy of the RO-DBT workbook gives you a fantastic opportunity to treat yourself. Perhaps it’s a sign to order glittery pens (purple and gold to match the cover?), pastel highlighters, or heart-shaped post-its. To challenge your OC tendencies, go for something bold, fun, and wild!
2. It gives you a great reason to engage in self-help.
In RO-DBT, OC clients are encouraged to read leisure magazines instead of self-help books ‑ and yes, that is clearly stated in the Official and Rigidly written RO-DBT manual. 😉
The irony is not lost on me. Still, if you have the urge to engage in self-help, and need to do something about it, look no further. The RO-DBT workbook is sure to satisfy your needs!
3. If you lean OC, you will feel understood and validated.
Perhaps the best part of the RO-DBT workbook is that if you’re OC and feel alone, the workbook will make you feel understood, heard, and validated. When I first discovered RO-DBT as a treatment approach, I felt like somebody else got it.
In other words, the RO-DBT workbook has the potential to make you feel less alone in your struggles. Since OC humans often struggle with loneliness, it’s guaranteed to be a satisfying and soothing read.
4. It will encourage you to “chill out” and have fun.
Not only does the RO-DBT workbook provide psychoeducation, self-awareness tools, reflection questions, skill-building exercises, and motivation, but it also encourages you to “chill out” and have more fun.
Now…I’m aware of imagining that instead of book reviews and sale numbers, perhaps we should consider measuring the book’s success by keeping track of who manages to put it down first to go have fun in real life instead? Tee-hee. J
5. It will add to your coffee table aesthetic.
My copy of the RO-DBT workbook is currently laid out on my coffee table. I wonder what there is to learn, and what the placement of my workbook signals to others who enter my living room?
Perhaps I am trying my best to convey to others that see? I’m working on myself. I’m focused on personal growth. I’m taking life seriously (and working hard at not taking it so seriously).
Or perhaps the reason is simpler than that: for me, it’s a reminder that I love the treatment.
Fine, I’ll “out” myself again. Part of me secretly hopes that others will take notice and ask me about RO-DBT, and I imagine we will have a wonderful, intellectual, and Very Serious conversation about it.
A final note to the publisher: the RO-DBT workbook has been described as a “ground-breaking guide” a “must read” and “game changer” for clients and clinicians alike. I couldn’t agree more.
However, I can’t help but wonder: …in the next edition, perhaps the publishers might consider adding a touch of vibrant colours, wild fonts, and intentional spelling mistakes? (I’m kidding, that would be horrible).
I wonder how open they would be to receive this feedback…perhaps this is yet another opportunity to celebrate the wonderful spirit of RO-DBT!!! 🙂